GENERIC NAME: THIORIDAZINE - ORAL (thigh-oh-RID-uh-zeen)

WARNING: Thioridazine rarely has caused very serious (possibly fatal) irregular heartbeat (QT prolongation in the EKG). Therefore, it should be used only in patients who have not shown improvement with at least 2 other antipsychotic medications or who cannot tolerate other antipsychotic medications. This medication should not be used with other medications that can also cause a slow or irregular heartbeat. (See also Drug Interactions.)

There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (such as heart failure, fast/irregular heartbeat, pneumonia) when this medication is used by older adults with dementia. This medication is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication, as well as other effective and possibly safer treatments for dementia-related behavior problems, with the doctor.